Credit Card Problems and Health Issues
Monday, December 10th, 2007When used properly, credit cards can add many benefits to your life. Unfortunately, the average person tends to use credit cards incorrectly. People who accumulate credit card debt create problems in many areas of their lives. The most significant of these is the health problems that are caused by problems associated with credit cards. Heart disease, skin conditions, fatigue, back pain and anxiety are all common health issues associated with stress caused by credit card debt. You’ve always known that it was important to take care of your finances, but did you realize that failure to do so could be damaging your health?
Heart problems are the most serious issue associated with credit card debt. This is a condition which builds up over time as a result of the stress caused by credit card debt. This stress spikes when credit card bills are overdue. It also peaks when a customer gets involved in intense conversations with credit card customer service representatives, during fights with family members about credit problems and when filling out new credit card applications. Additionally, the general stress of trying to find the money to pay the debt causes problems within the body which can affect the heart. Stress increases blood pressure and causes damage to the circulatory system. Heart attacks and strokes are frequently cited as stress-related so if credit card debt is a cause of stress, it’s a cause of these conditions.
Less serious, but still notable, conditions that are also caused by this type of stress are skin conditions, fatigue and back pain. Stress exacerbates each of these problems; you may notice that they flare up when you are dealing with credit card difficulties. Acne breakouts may be seen during particularly stressful times. Fatigue and back pain can be caused both by the stress and by over-working to pay off the debts that have been accumulated. All three conditions can be easily remedied by properly taking care of oneself, a process which begins with reducing stress.
All of these problems are related to the stress of credit card debt. However, the health issue most closely linked with this stress is the problem of anxiety. You may find that you are constantly worrying about how bills are going to get paid, how you are going to purchase important items and even what you are going to do for income once you reach retirement. Anxiety over these concerns can worsen the other health conditions caused by the stress of credit card debt. By working to reduce the debt and make it manageable, you automatically decrease the risk that you are posing to your health.
